Thank You for visiting the SWMS Wiki page. As you scroll through this page, I encourage you to add your comments and ideas. If you are a music educator, please sign in and record some of your professional thoughts and success.
Evidence continues to focus on the arts (music) as a vital component in the positive growth of every child. For years we have pointed to the music students as those who have demonstrated a special talent. However, based on extended studies we now know it is the very process of learning music that develops the artistic mind and brings forth the creative potential in all young people. For this reason, continued membership in our musical family is strongly encouraged.
It is a privilege to have your child as a valued musician in our organization. Thank you for your support of music education at Southwest Middle School. You play an important role in everything we do!
About SWMS Bands
The Southwest Band Department has been fortunate to have outstanding groups every year. Since SW opened its doors in 1993, the bands have consistently placed first in All-City Honors Band, and have received an impressive number of superior ratings at Solo & Ensemble Contest. In 2004, Southwest had 8 members in All-State Middle School Band, matching the most in the state from one school. In 2007, Southwest had 4 students make the band, posting the largest number from western SD.
The Hawks Bands perform for all the school pep-assemblies, perform three formal concerts a year, and march with the Steven’s High School Raider Marching Band in one pre-show. This year, the band was part of the Red Ribbon Day Parade, earning the "Judges Choice" Award.
Teaching Band Students
Amazing things can happen when you learn to play a musical instrument. The sounds, the rhythms, and the melodies that float out of your instrument can transform and take you to a different place... once you get the hang of how to play, that is..
Figuring out how to do that can be a bit of a challenge. Lots of hassles pop up that even frustrate the most dedicated student. Things like, no time to practice, getting jitters before a performance or playing test, dealing with loud drummers, or having to haul that big baritone sax home for practice.
On this "Music Education" page, I hope to discuss some of these issues, and to get some feedback and help from other music educators and students who have experienced these issues.
SWMS BAND SITE http://www.rcas.org/swms/band
Thank You for visiting the SWMS Wiki page. As you scroll through this page, I encourage you to add your comments and ideas. If you are a music educator, please sign in and record some of your professional thoughts and success.
Evidence continues to focus on the arts (music) as a vital component in the positive growth of every child. For years we have pointed to the music students as those who have demonstrated a special talent. However, based on extended studies we now know it is the very process of learning music that develops the artistic mind and brings forth the creative potential in all young people. For this reason, continued membership in our musical family is strongly encouraged.
It is a privilege to have your child as a valued musician in our organization. Thank you for your support of music education at Southwest Middle School. You play an important role in everything we do!
About SWMS Bands
The Southwest Band Department has been fortunate to have outstanding groups every year. Since SW opened its doors in 1993, the bands have consistently placed first in All-City Honors Band, and have received an impressive number of superior ratings at Solo & Ensemble Contest. In 2004, Southwest had 8 members in All-State Middle School Band, matching the most in the state from one school. In 2007, Southwest had 4 students make the band, posting the largest number from western SD.
The Hawks Bands perform for all the school pep-assemblies, perform three formal concerts a year, and march with the Steven’s High School Raider Marching Band in one pre-show. This year, the band was part of the Red Ribbon Day Parade, earning the "Judges Choice" Award.
Teaching Band Students
Amazing things can happen when you learn to play a musical instrument. The sounds, the rhythms, and the melodies that float out of your instrument can transform and take you to a different place... once you get the hang of how to play, that is..
Figuring out how to do that can be a bit of a challenge. Lots of hassles pop up that even frustrate the most dedicated student. Things like, no time to practice, getting jitters before a performance or playing test, dealing with loud drummers, or having to haul that big baritone sax home for practice.
On this "Music Education" page, I hope to discuss some of these issues, and to get some feedback and help from other music educators and students who have experienced these issues.